As a parent of a kid with autism, ADHD, or other support needs, you might often find yourself in a unique position: knowing your kid better than anyone else!
While teachers and either school staff are dedicated to providing the best possible support, sometimes it can be challenging to find the right approach. That's where parent advocacy comes in.
What is Parent Advocacy?
Parent advocacy involves actively working to ensure your kid receives the necessary resources, accommodations, and support to succeed in school and in life. It's about being an informed champion for your kid's needs and communicating effectively with teachers, administrators, and other professionals.
Support for Danny (and Danny’s mom!)
Danny faced some challenges in school. At 10 years old, he was diagnosed with ADHD and struggled to focus and stay on task. His teachers were well-intentioned, but they weren't sure how to best support him in learning. So his mom reached out to DJ for coaching and guidance.
Danny’s mom thought that he might need something more than traditional classroom accommodations. So, she worked with DJ, an educational coach, to develop strategies that would help him access grade-level content and stay focused. One of the suggestions was to incorporate technology support. By providing Danny with tools that allowed him to listen to textbooks and use assistive technology, we were able to help him engage with his schoolwork in a way that was more effective for him. And made him feel so much more confident and independent!
Inclusiveology offers educational coaching for parents so they can be the biggest champion for their neurodivergent kid's learning success. Check it out at inclusiveology.com.
You Know Your Kid the Best!
As a parent, you have a unique understanding of your kid's strengths, challenges, and learning styles. You’ve spent countless hours observing them, supporting them, and getting to know them on a deep level.
That's why it's so important for you to be a champion for your kid and to advocate for them, even when others may have different perspectives.
Here are some tips for advocating for your child:
Stay informed: Learn about your kid's diagnosis and the available resources and supports.
Communicate effectively: Build positive relationships with your kid's teachers and other school staff.
Be persistent: Don't give up if you're not seeing the results you want. And don’t be afraid to ask questions!
Seek support: Connect with other parents who are going through similar experiences.
Remember, you are your child's biggest champion. Their biggest fan! By being proactive and assertive, you can make sure that your kid receives the support they need to go the distance and be amazing!
Want to start with some FREE resources and a place to ask questions and get REAL answers, CLICK HERE to check out our online community, IEP and Learning Supports for Moms of Neurodivergent Kids!
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